Elon Musk has intensified his political engagement by framing recent Tesla protests and the Wisconsin Supreme Court election as battles against fraud and government waste. During a Fox News appearance, Musk labeled violent attacks on Tesla properties as a “fundamental case of corruption” and suggested organized efforts behind the protests, possibly alluding to liberal financiers like George Soros.
– Musk donated $20 million to conservative candidate Brad Schimel, framing the election as critical to preserving Trump-era policies and “the future of civilization”. Schimel’s campaign emphasizes restricting judicial activism, while opponents accuse Musk of buying influence over state courts.
– Nationwide “Tesla Takedown” protests targeted dealerships, criticizing Musk’s role in Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has slashed federal programs and jobs. Musk dismissed demonstrators as “paid operatives” and linked them to Soros-funded groups.
– Musk defended his agency’s spending cuts despite reports exaggerating savings, while protesters warned his policies endanger public services and democratic norms.
– Accused liberals of election fraud in Wisconsin without evidence, aiming to galvanize conservative voters.
– Awarded $1 million checks to Wisconsin supporters at rallies, blending political messaging with viral stunts.
– Faces backlash for leveraging Tesla’s lawsuit against Wisconsin (blocking dealerships) to influence judicial outcomes.
– Susan Crawford, Schimel’s liberal opponent, condemned Musk’s spending as outsider interference, vowing to protect abortion rights and fair redistricting.
– Protesters nationwide labeled Musk a “fascist enabler,” citing DOGE’s aggressive cuts and his embrace of Trump’s agenda.
This clash underscores Musk’s growing role in shaping U.S. politics through wealth and media influence, positioning Wisconsin’s election as a proxy war over Trump’s legacy and corporate power in governance.